3 Days Prenatal Yoga Retreat California

3 Days Prenatal Yoga Retreat California

14618 Tyler Foote RD, Nevada City, California, USA

Weekend California Yoga Retreat

Empower and nurture yourself this weekend with the use of yogic tools and techniques for a positive pregnancy, labor, and birth experience. Doing Prenatal yoga is a wonderful way to put time aside for yourself and your baby. This weekend offers an excellent opportunity to connect with other expectant mothers and to share information and experiences. To complete the weekend, you’ll receive two take-home modifiable Prenatal yoga routines to practice throughout your pregnancy. You’ll also receive articles and a list of resources to help you prepare for childbirth and the joy of motherhood.

Each guest room includes two twin beds, carpeting, heat, air conditioning (except for the cabins), towels, and bedding. There is a refrigerator behind the main kitchen, which is available for guests. A limited number of queen-sized beds are available. Fresh linens and towels are available weekly; there is no daily maid service. Wi-Fi is available for all guests except those in cabins or tents.

Harmony house

Each room has a private entrance, a private bathroom, air conditioning, a ceiling fan, and a hairdryer. Harmony house is dedicated to expressing Yogananda's expansive approach to religion and his belief in celebrating God through beauty. Simply and elegantly appointed, each room is decorated in the theme of one of the great world religions. Available rooms are the Yogananda room, Buddhism room, Saint Francis room, Madonna room, Taoism room, Islam room, Judaism room, and the Hinduism room.

Serenity house

Serenity house is an inn-style house with twelve air-conditioned rooms and four hall bathrooms. It has a comfortable lounge-classroom equipped with a video player and a library of inspirational videos. The lounge-classroom also has a small refrigerator for personal items.

Cabins

Each cabin has one room, which is larger and more private than other standard rooms; cabin occupants share separate men's and women's shower houses about a minute walk away.

Tents and RVs

If you would like to stay in a tent or an RV, please bring your own. Tent camping is available from April through October on level, shaded campsites. RVs are welcome year-round; however, there are no RV facilities and hookups at this time.Tenters are part of The Expanding Light Retreat meals and programs, so tent spaces do not include facilities for cooking or picnicking.

The camping area has a sink with running water and an outhouse. All outdoor accommodations have access to separate men's and women's shower houses an easy two or three minute walk across the meadow. Facilities have flush toilets, plenty of hot water, and shower and toilet partitions for your comfort and privacy.

The Prenatal yoga retreat starts in the afternoon of the first date listed. It’s ideal to arrive before 4 p.m., if you are able to. That way, you can join in the afternoon session of yoga and meditation, which begins at 4.45 p.m. Dinner is at 6.30 p.m. The first real gathering of your group is at 7.30 p.m. If you need to arrive here after 5 p.m., that’s fine, but it helps The Expanding Light Retreat if you let them know. They can also put aside a dinner for you if you need to arrive after 7 p.m. The program ends with lunch on the last date.

Prenatal yoga

Pregnancy is a transitional time for women, when many physical and emotional changes take place. Prenatal yoga is about honoring these changes in yourselves and your body as you connect to the baby throughout these nine months. In class, you will explore postures that stretch and strengthen your newly changing body in a safe way. You’ll also work on finding focus through balance and the breath to connect mother and baby, and to prepare for a healthy, mindful, and more natural approach to labor and birth.

What you will do

Learn benefits and cautions of Prenatal yoga

Learn remedies for common prenatal complaints

Connect more deeply with your baby through meditation

Learn how to breathe deeply and effectively to enhance overall health and prepare for the challenge of birth

Learn positive affirmations to use while practicing yoga postures, and during pregnancy and labor

Practice two energizing and relaxing routines to work through resistance, and calm the body and mind

Evening

Melody has been living the teachings of yoga from a very young age. She became a certified Ananda Yoga and Meditation Teacher in 2006. One of the main instructors for the Ananda Yoga Teacher Training Program, Melody is registered at the highest level through Yoga Alliance, and also teaches Restorative and Prenatal Yoga. Melody is also a dancer who finds great joy in practicing the movement of yoga, and guiding beginning through advanced students into the stillness of meditation that follows yoga. Melody’s loving nature shines through her ability to take care of all of her.

Home to The Expanding Light Retreat yoga and meditation retreat, Ananda Village is one of the most successful spiritual communities in the world and is part of the worldwide organization of Ananda. Ananda Village was founded in 1969 by Swami Kriyananda, one of Paramhansa Yoganandas foremost disciples, to fulfill Yogananda's vision of world brotherhood colonies and spiritual communities based on the twin principles of plain living and high thinking.

The Ananda community is situated on 700 acres of meadows and forests amidst the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains in northern California just outside Nevada City. As a guest at The Expanding Light Retreat center, you are invited to tour the community and visit the numerous sites and attractions the village has to offer.

Three delicious and satisfying vegetarian buffet meals are included with the cost of your stay. Some of The Expanding Light Retreat's dishes contain eggs and dairy. They use organically grown foods as much as possible, including some organically grown eggs and produce from Ananda Village and organically grown fair trade coffee. They have a variety of teas and fresh fruit available all day.

The Expanding Light Retreat can accommodate some special dietary needs with non-dairy, non-wheat, and egg-free choices. A small refrigerator for guests who are staying in Serenity House lounge and a full size refrigerator outside the kitchen are available for storing special foods which guests might need during their stay. There is a market in the Ananda Village if you’d like to buy special items.

Crystal hermitage

At Crystal Hermitage, guests can enjoy the spiritual heart of Ananda. Tour the beautiful gardens, small chapel, and the Shrine of the Masters, a small museum, and gift shop housing holy relics from India and Ananda's line of yoga masters.

Hansa temple

Hansa temple is a unique architectural building that houses longer morning meditations for Ananda residents. If some guests are experienced meditators and would like a 90-minute meditation, they are welcome to join. Ask for times at the front desk.

Healing prayer

A healing prayer, on an individual basis, is offered through the healing prayer ministry for a suggested donation between 40 to 100 USD. Session lengths vary based on individual need.

Individual spiritual counseling

Receive assistance and guidance tailored to your needs with counseling available from the Ananda ministers for a fee of 75 USD per hour. If you are interested, contact the front desk to schedule a private session.

Lahiri Mandir

This is a small chapel on the path to Lotus Lake. A sacred space ideal for meditation, Lahiri is open all the time for quiet reflection and meditation.

Lotus Lake

This lovely lake fills with water lilies and lotus flowers in summer. It is a beautiful area ideal for walks where you can often see wild birds. A path around the lake includes outdoor altars to the line of Masters.

Masters market

A natural foods market with a deli, bakery, and cappuccino bar that also features homemade pizza on Friday nights, a local favorite!

Personal instruction in meditation

This is available to everyone on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday at 10 a.m. or at other times by appointment. Even if you currently meditate, it is encouraged to take the class which includes: how to focus your mind, how to sit comfortably, when and where to meditate, and more.

Private yoga classes

Personally tailored to your body and needs, these classes are available with one of the certified Ananda yoga teachers for a fee of 75 USD per hour. You can focus on classical Hatha yoga or Restorative yoga. Contact the front desk to make an appointment.

Rajarshi park

A complex that houses a number of Ananda businesses including the management offices for the community; the healing prayer ministry, with 600 members worldwide who do healing prayers for those in need; and Crystal Clarity publishers, which produces books, DVDs, and CDs by Paramhansa Yogananda, Swami Kriyananda, and others on topics related to yoga, meditation, and self-realization.

Serenity lounge

This is a homey room located in the Serenity building. When not in use for a class, it is open to guests for relaxation, reading, yoga, meditation, watching videos, listening to music or just socializing. Serenity lounge is also stocked with tea and coffee and equipped with a small refrigerator, microwave, and electric teapot for guest use.

The Expanding Light boutique

The boutique is located in the guest services building and is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Full of unique treasures, The Expanding Light boutique is a favorite destination shopping stop for guests and locals alike.

The temple

This temple, located just off the dining room, is a beautiful space, in which daily practice of yoga postures and meditation is held, as well as classes and evening programs. When not in use for a scheduled class or event, it is open for meditation and Hatha yoga.

Massages can be a wonderful and healing addition to your stay. The massage practitioners are Ananda members and work through the Center for Radiant Health. The center offers a variety of types of massages, as well as craniosacral therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), astrological readings, career coaching, and more. Prices for massage sessions are 75 USD for a one hour long massage and 95 USD for a one and a half hour long massage. There are treatment rooms, but unlike a traditional spa, The Expanding Light Retreat have no pool facilities.

Driving directions from Sacramento

At Auburn, turn left on CA-49 toward Grass Valley / Nevada City and go 38 miles.

Just past Nevada City, turn left at the 49 to Downieville sign. Follow this road for 10.5 miles (watch your odometer). It's a curving mountain road that crosses the Yuba River.

Turn right on Tyler-Foote road, immediately after the sign for Malakoff Diggins State Park, and go about 5 miles.

Turn left on Ananda Way and left again, almost immediately, on Expanding Light way.

Driving directions from Reno

Take I-80 towards Sacramento and go 55 miles.

Take CA-20 and go 27 miles.

Turn right on CA-49 towards Downieville and go 10.5 miles.

Turn right on Tyler-Foote road, immediately after the sign for Malakoff Diggins State Park, and go about 5 miles.

Turn left on Ananda Way and left again, almost immediately, on Expanding Light way.

Driving directions from Seattle or Portland

Take I-5 to Williams, California.

Take CA-20 to Nevada City and go 77 miles.

Turn right on CA-49 towards Downieville and go 10.5 miles.

Turn right on Tyler-Foote road, immediately after the sign for Malakoff Diggins State Park, and go about 5 miles.

Turn left on Ananda Way and left again, almost immediately, on Expanding Light way.

Arrival by airplane

Flights should be booked to arrive at Sacramento International Airport (SMF). Another option is Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) but it's less preferable. Transfers from and to Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is available on request. The Expanding Light Retreat can organize transfers for an extra price and based on availability. Please request this service from them once you have booked your plane tickets.

Arrival by bus

Greyhound bus offers service from available cities to Colfax, approximately an hour from Ananda. To get to Ananda from Colfax you will need to take a cab.

Amtrak offers limited bus service from available cities into Colfax (if coming from the east) and Auburn (if coming from the west), each about an hour away from Ananda. To get to Ananda from Colfax or Auburn, you will need to take a cab.

Arrival by train

Amtrak offers train service from available cities into Colfax (if coming from the East) and Auburn (if coming from the West), each about an hour away from Ananda. To get to Ananda from Colfax or Auburn, you will need to take a cab.

Verified BookYogaRetreats.com reviews

A

Review by Antonio Manso from Brazil

Perfect opportunity to connect in an amazing place

CONS Cons: All was positive.

PROS Pros: Food was very tasty, and prepared with care and creativity. Everything organic and healthy was a plus.
Double room was nicely decorated, towels and sheets were clean and well arranged.
During meals it was great to meet other people, also some employees who shared their experience at Ananda. The place and scenery was fantastic and the overall energy really inviting to dive into a meaningfull and profound experience.

2017-Jul-24 22:43:25

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Review by Anonymous

Beginner's Week

PROS Pros: The sehedule, the teachers and the wonderful attitude that permeated.

2017-Jul-22 16:17:13

M

Review by Monica Morong from United States

Perfect

PROS Pros: The entire experience was life-changing. The schedule was lovely, the people were lovely, the village is on sacred ground and you could feel the peaceful energy, the food was outstanding, the classes were mind-altering... the experience was lasting and I am excited to go back again!

Organizer response: Monica, Thank you for declaring your experience at The Expanding Light perfect! It's so great that you had such a positive experience. We're so appreciative that you shared this positive review so others can consider it.
We look forward to your coming to visit us again.
Many blessings, Nityananda

2017-Jun-28 15:43:35

A

Review by Ashley Riley from United States

Organizer response: Hi Ashley, Wow, we're so pleased that you found your stay at The Expanding Light to be nearly perfect! We are delighted. Thank you kindly for sharing your positive impressions with others. We really appreciate it.
Many blessings, Nityananda

2017-Jun-25 01:34:08

R

Review by Renee Larue from United States

Organizer response: Renee, Thank you so much for your kind review. We greatly appreciate that you joined us and we are delighted that your visit was so good. We look forward to seeing you again. Blessings, Nityananda

2017-Jun-23 02:12:36

K

Review by Kay Paden from United States

CONS Cons: It was not through the 12th .

2017-Jun-13 02:59:10

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Review by Ross Fraser from Great Britain

Organizer response: Hi Ross, thank you so much for taking the time to give us this great review. We are delighted your stay was so good. We hope you can join us again.
Blessings, Nityananda

2017-Jun-03 07:38:10

L

Review by Leighann Esslinger from United States

2017-May-29 00:27:00

C

Review by Catrina Sciarrillo from United States

Organizer response: Hi Catrina, Sorry for the slow response. We greatly appreciate your taking the time to give us a good review. It's great that your visit was a good one. We hope you will visit again.
Blessings, Nityananda

2017-Apr-22 00:28:44

J

Review by Jon Chapman from United States

Organizer response: Hi Jon, Sorry we didn't respond sooner. We are delighted that your stay was that good. We hope you can come and visit again another time. Thank you for posting this review.
Blessings to you, Nityananda

2017-Apr-15 15:11:38

Review by Juliet Johnson from United States

2 out of 10

"The people were nice enough. The retreat though had very little yoga. Rather it focused on body energizer activities, and meditation. I wanted to focus on yoga and improving my abilities, and came away deeply disappointed for the lack of yoga on this retreat. Also, the website should state that a big focus of the retreat is teaching about the Ananda communities beliefs, which includes gurus they've chosen to follow, reincarnation, and sources of energy. "

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Review by Susan from US

10 out of 10

"Words cannot describe my time out there. What I can say is I look forward to going back and encourage everyone to go and experience Ananda."

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Review by Annalisa Cunningham

10 out of 10

"Within a few days I began to experience a peace and joy that I had never felt before in my entire life. What was unique and wonderful about this vacation was that the new level of peace I felt was a direct result of the yoga lifestyle I was living at The Expanding Light Retreat."

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Review by Tim from United States

10 out of 10

"All the teachers taught from the heart. They believe in what they are teaching. They all are examples of how to live in the divine. This is a wonderful way to reach your inner self."

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Review by Aline from United States

10 out of 10

"It is so beautiful here – serenity abounds. The staff was friendly, helpful, but not intrusive – wonderful! I like the openness of the community, and the take what fits, leave the rest” attitude. A wonderful experience. Loved sadhana. Thanks!"

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Review by Petra from Hawaii

10 out of 10

"The best program I have ever taken - it went very deep and got me inspired. I have a feeling it was a life-changing experience."

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Review by Aaron from US

10 out of 10

"I got much more than I ever could have dreamed. The course was very well rounded. The staff has been nothing short of totally supportive. A very empowering experience."

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Review by Pamela from United States

10 out of 10

"I could not have envisioned a more perfect personal retreat experience. Or perhaps I should say, it was the personal retreat experience I envisioned and needed and more."

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Review by Amy from US

10 out of 10

"The immersion into the beautiful environment among such nurturing people inspired a hope that I took home, and now feel everyday. The program was nourishing in every way, from the food to the spiritual. I left full of love, knowledge, and the will to make such positive changes in my life. I am overwhelmed with thanks for this program and for the continued support and connection I feel to all the teachers and staff of The Expanding Light!"

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Review by Kathleen from United States

10 out of 10

"I would highly recommend The Expanding Light to anyone who is looking for inner peace and joy. I am so grateful."

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Review by a traveler from United States

10 out of 10

"What helped me the most is assistance in gaining awareness that “I” can become spiritual and have a spiritual path. The tools and skills I gained during my time at Expanding Light are priceless and a true gift."

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Review by a traveler from United States

10 out of 10

"Everyone was very helpful, kind and loving. It has been a joy to be part of the program at Ananda."

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Review by Nancy from United States

10 out of 10

"I benefited so much from the counseling I got during my personal retreat. I came as an emotional mess but after 6 days I am leaving with love and joy in my heart and clarity in my mind."

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Review by John from US

10 out of 10

"This course is applicable in all aspects of life. The skills I learned over these few days will be used in my daily life and all of my relationships. There were many gems of wisdom that i will use to step into my Higher Self. Thank you to all the teachers of the course. They gave so much of themselves, and I truly felt their care."

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Review by Katherine

10 out of 10

"I was deeply impressed with how the teachers really help each student overcome their obstacles (spiritual, mental, physical) to achieve certification.”"

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Review by a traveler from United States

10 out of 10

"The holiness of sacred India touched my heart and soul in a way that nothing has ever done before. I was moved and changed deeply."

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Review by a traveler from United States

10 out of 10

"Thank you for a wonderful trip of a lifetime. I am forever changed and so much more grounded after my return. My morning spiritual practice has been consistent and my meditations are coming along. All in good time."

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Review by a traveler from US

10 out of 10

"Badri's energy and passion for yoga is palpable. His actions are sincere and he truly cares about the well being of all students. Without hesitation, I felt I could approach him for any help on class topics and personal matters."

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Review by a traveler from Italy

10 out of 10

"Badri is a magnetic leader with a profound knowledge and understanding of not only yoga asanas, but the deeper aspects of yoga philosophy. Foremost, he is an incredible model of how to apply the principles of yoga in one's own life; making yoga not just something you practice on your mat, but every day, in every situation. He is funny, insightful, focused, and a talented yogi that inspired me to reach for my own potential; to go forth and share the knowledge, insights, and inspiration I've received during my time in the Ananda Yoga teacher training."

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Review by a traveler from United States

10 out of 10

"Don’t let Badri’s youthful look and spirit fool you! His depth of knowledge about the Asanas (and all of Ananda’s yoga techniques) is vast. His expertise and heart come through in all his teachings giving him the unique ability to provide specific technical and safety instruction along with the many physical and spiritual benefits of the practices. Badri is a great role model as a teacher and I learned so much through his thoughtful, detailed feedback—it allowed me to build my skills quickly and and feel confident enough to teach right after graduating from my Teacher Training."

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Review by Sanjay Garla from United States

10 out of 10

"I think the highlights are that the people who run the retreat center are really nice, and welcoming. They go out of their way to make sure that new people feel welcome. The food is excellent (you have to watch out not to eat too much because that made me sluggish throughout the day). The grounds are beautiful. The yoga and meditation practice is good. The rooms are comfortable, and warm. It's well worth the cost. The only thing to warn people about is that the place is run by folks devoted to a spiritual path set forth by a Swami from India. It resembles a cult, although once you get to know people there its pretty relaxed. They encourage participation in the lectures and Sunday service, however they don't pressure or ever try to "convert" anyone. They are pretty hands off, and welcoming of the different paths that bring people there."

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Review by a traveler from United States

10 out of 10

"Your prices are an extraordinary bargain in light of what the participants receive."

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Review by Sue from United States

10 out of 10

"During my drive to The Expanding Light on Friday I was feeling pretty negative and weighted down with some personal-relationship challenges, but I left with a transformed outlook and a sense of new hope and optimism."

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Review by Andrea from United States

10 out of 10

"First of all, the setting of The Expanding Light is stunning. The combination of the beautiful setting and the genuinely happy people that I met set the tone for my time there. I have never felt so embraced and held in that way before, and it gave me a perfect opportunity for discovery in a safe environment. I never would have believed it possible that people could live so harmoniouslyrespecting each other and providing support so that everyone can reach their highest potential. I met people there that I have no doubt will be part of my life forever.As a result of my visit, there have been some dramatic shifts in my perceptions. Challenges that I have had my entire life just dissolved. I have never felt so free and full of joy. While I know that this life will never be without adversity, I have a calm confidence that I have the strength to meet anything that comes. I can't remember my heart ever being so open before, and I just want to share that love!"

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Review by Marilyn from United States

10 out of 10

"Being away from the negative feedback of the world, in a loving community filled with such talented teachers, has been a gift to me. Teachers are available for talks at mealtime or privately. It is difficult to describe the incredible teachers and programs. My visits have helped me resolve some personal issues, including becoming more accepting of myself and others, with the help of loving and positive guidance from these teachers. Sessions with healing practitioners have also helped to transform me spiritually. The Expanding Light provides an opportunity to transform oneself physically, mentally and spiritually."

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Review by Laurie from United States

10 out of 10

"This training program was transformative for me. I would say that my stress level decreased by 80% after I started using the inspiration I brought home. From all that I'd learned in the course from our incredible teachers, I became inspired to meditate regularly, do an Affirmation Walk daily, and even cut my alcohol, coffee, and sugar by 90%. I feel great. The aches in my joints are gone.The Holistic Health retreat helped me start my healthier lifestyle, and also has helped quiet my busy mind and maintain a much higher level of peace. I have attended other retreats through the years, and by far, The Expanding Light has given me the longest lasting impact in my day-to-day life.The Expanding Light is a place I have decided to make a priority to come back to each year. It has become much more than just a retreat. I have made friends to last a lifetime."

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Review by Nitya from India

10 out of 10

"Ananda Yoga Teacher Training at The Expanding Light is a lifetime opportunity to grow and mature emotionally, physically, mentally, and spiritually. The classes provide practical information and much food for thought. The instructors are thorough but also compassionate and supportive. As students, we felt the support of the staff and the entire community. The food is like nectar to the soul and very nourishing for the body. The peaceful environment allows the students to relax and go deeper into the teachings of yoga while feeling safe and nurtured. Above all, there's much joy and laughter each day and a deep feeling that Spirit is watching over us as we stretch and grow. What a blessed month! Thank you!"

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Review by Ariella from Canada

10 out of 10

"Ananda Yoga Teacher Training at The Expanding Light was an incredibly positive and transformative experience for me. Not only was the environment stunningly beautiful and peaceful, but my classmates and instructors were amazing. I've made lifelong friends here. The instructors always went the extra mile to make sure I understood everything and were so kind, friendly, and knowledgeable. I wasn't surprised to find out that this is one of the oldest yoga teacher training programs in the US! After four amazing weeks, I can't wait to teach my first class! I'm so glad I took this training."

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Review by Galine from United States

10 out of 10

" The Ananda Yoga Teacher Training Program helped me to deepen my practice as well as raise my awareness of who I am, how my body is related to it, what my purpose is here, and what my life goals are. The energy and vibrations of the classes are really healing, calming, and inspiring. I have a feeling that I have found a whole new family at The Expanding Light!"

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Testimonials

Review by Caryn

10 out of 10

"My time at Expanding Light was extraordinarily rewarding and peaceful. I wanted a lot of time alone to deepen my meditation practice, and to read, write, and walk, and Expanding Light met all of my expectations and more. It took me a little while to adjust to the quiet, but I quickly got over that and worked myself into a pleasant daily routine, albeit only for three days. When I returned home, I still had four days off before I returned to work , and a couple of my co-workers told me how relaxed I seemed. I will always carry my experience with me. A little lady named Adrienne who was in the Karma Yoga program at The Expanding Light came across my path and told me that I'd probably leave there with the Ananda Glow, and I do believe that happened. Thank you so much for everything."

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Review by Shauna from United States

10 out of 10

"I wanted to thank you again for a wonderful and insightful week at The Expanding Light. I really enjoyed being in your presence, and I'm grateful for the tools you've shared with me. I feel like I've finally caught a glimpse of the light inside of me, a light I've been chasing all of my life. As long as I can remember, I sensed there was something very special and powerful inside of me, but I didn't know how to reach it. You have all truly blessed me with a deep and spiritual awakening. Ananda is a very special place, and I hope I can hold onto as much of it as possible."

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Review by Elizabeth from United States

10 out of 10

"I was surprised by how the whole philosophy and practice made so much sense. Being skeptical of religion, I am also surprised that I am leaving with a spiritual practice/belief. The information I learned and the practical methods gave me confidence in taking yoga home with me. A great five days, I am very thankful I found Ananda."

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Review by a traveler from United States

10 out of 10

"I had needs met I didn't even know I had! Every day was a new adventure, with something interesting and transforming. It almost felt like little miracles. The food was nutritious and very good."

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Review by Pamela from United States

10 out of 10

"I could not have envisioned a more perfect personal retreat experience. Or perhaps I should say, it was the personal retreat experience I envisioned and needed and more."

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Review by a traveler from United States

10 out of 10

"I benefited so much from the counseling I got during my personal retreat. I came as an emotional mess but after 6 days I am leaving with love and joy in my heart and clarity in my mind."

The Expanding Light website, edited

Review by Alline from United States

10 out of 10

"It is so beautiful here serenity abounds. The staff was friendly, helpful, but not intrusive wonderful! I like the openness of the community, and the take what fits, leave the rest attitude. A wonderful experience. Loved sadhana. Thanks! "

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Review by Teresa from United States

10 out of 10

"Thanks to everyone at Ananda for creating a beautiful oasis where joy naturally bubbles up. I felt effervescent surrounded by such blissful, loving people. The Expanding Light gave me the rejuvenation and growth in spiritual skills that I needed to help my dad with a full loving heart. When people ask me about the retreat, I say 'They are living it.' Meaning you all are truly living a spiritual life and creating spiritual community in every way."

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Review by Pam from United States

10 out of 10

"Thank you Ananda, and all the other extraordinary teachers and beams of God's light. Our hearts are touched and we will never be quite the same. My friend said that her time at Expanding Light was the best present she has ever had in her life! We love you all and truly miss you! At 10 a.m. I wanted to head over to our classroom for another fascinating, laughter-filled, and inspiring class."

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Review by Heather from United States

10 out of 10

"My First Timer's Week in October was beyond inspiring. I have wanted to visit for eight years, and this visit was pure love, joy, and bliss."

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Review by Ginger from United States

10 out of 10

"My experience at Ananda has given me back my life. I remember now the dynamic person I was born to be. I leave here full of faith in myself and God; with God in myself, and with the tools to create a life of harmony and joy. Yoga is a way of life, not just an exercise class. If done the Ananda way, everyday, it will change who you thought you were."

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Review by Jesse from United States

10 out of 10

"I knew that my time in the Ananda Yoga Teacher Training (AYTT) course would be life-changing, I just had no idea how it would all manifest. I could not be happier with how it unfolded. The people in the course were amazing, and all of The Expanding Light facilitators were incredible. I truly experienced the Expanding Light, and my testimonial to this is that I am going to pass it on. I am so inspired to give back, because what I have received here is too much for me to keep locked inside of me. I leave here with open eyes and an open heart, and with overflowing joy."

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Review by Trina from United States

10 out of 10

"AYTT was a course in how to live. It not only taught us how to teach but how to deepen our own practice so that we become what we are teaching."

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Review by Karen from United States

10 out of 10

"The AYTT was life transforming. I had no idea how detailed, organized, and professional this program would be. Every teacher was enlightening. I have so much to take home with me. Im going home ready to teach and confident that I will be a very fine teacher. I will keep people safe thanks to all my teachers here. I will share my love of going inward, and being the best that I can be. Thank you from the deepest center of my heart."

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Review by Bliss from United States

10 out of 10

"In the four short weeks that I have experienced Ananda Yoga, I have felt a shift in my inner being. I feel that I have moved my spiritual practice to a deeper level, and Im finding the words trust and receiving are starting to integrate into my way of thinking. Peacefulness has overcome anxiety, and I feel in a much better place to give more of myself, and also to allow myself to receive."

The Expanding Light Retreat website, edited

Review by Michelle from United States

10 out of 10

"YTT is more than learning to teach yoga, it is about learning to live your yoga. The breadth and depth of the program astounded me. I cant imagine a more complete program. Your program is really the holistic approach for those who want to spend 28 days to transform their lives."

The Expanding Light Retreat website, edited

Review by John from United States

10 out of 10

"I feel like Ive learned much more than I ever thought I would. The teachers were great, the lessons wonderful, the work not too demanding, the free time fun filled, and the food fantastic , what more can you ask for? It definitely deepened my understanding of the asanas, both practically and theoretically. Because of AYTT I feel much more confident in going out to teach."

The Expanding Light Retreat website, edited

Review by Lisa from United States

10 out of 10

"This is an excellent program designed to help you become a competent and confident meditation teacher. I enjoyed every minute of it, and I'm ready to share this joy with the world."

The Expanding Light Retreat website, edited

Review by Hannah Isaacson from United States

10 out of 10

"This training really prepares the new teacher to be able to relate to their students and teach with confidence and ease. The program balances perfectly the heart qualities of meditation with the practical application aspects. This course opened my heart, taught me how to successfully teach meditation, and truly changed my life."